Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Johnson Charged After Abandoning Dog

NORTH CAROLINA -- On February 22, 2013, Brunswick County Sheriff’s Animal Protective Services, along with the Town of Leland Animal Control, obtained into custody an Austrailian Shepherd mixed canine.


Tara Johnson

The animal was found abandoned by a real estate agent who was changing the locks in a foreclosed home.


The dog was found in a wire crate and was found to be severely dehydrated and malnourished. He was also unable to move his back legs.



After a thorough investigation by Animal Protective Services Officer Cpl. Terri Ferguson, a warrant was issued for Tara Johnson, 35, of Leland.


Johnson was taken into custody without incident and was charged on 03/05/13 with one count of cruelty to animals, namely intentionally depriving the animal of sustenance and one count of abandonment of an animal.

She is currently being detained in the Brunswick County Detention Center under a $1,000 secured bond.


The dog, whom has been named “Springer” by the staff and animal specialists at Animal Services, is gaining weight and recovering. Lt. Tommy Tolley says “he is full of life and recovering wonderfully but has a long road ahead”.

(Brunswick County Sheriff's Office - Mar 5, 2013)